The Millbrook Wildcats Men’s Varsity Tennis Team had a fantastic 2024-2025 season, finishing with a respectable overall record of 13-7, and an even more impressive 10-1 conference record, securing a first-place finish in the NAC- Conference. Under the leadership of Coach Jeff Troch, the Wildcats combined skill, determination, and unmatched team chemistry to complete a truly successful season.
The Wildcats achieved numerous individual accomplishments, as well as impressive team and dual match feats from the season-opening match at Enloe High School to the end of the 4A East Regional Tournament. The first three matches of the tournament did not go in favor of the Wildcats, having tough competition against Enloe, Leesville Road, and Broughton. However, Millbrook responded strongly with key wins over Wake Christian Academy, Corinth Holders, and Heritage. An important note from the regular season were the two consecutive 9-0 shutouts against Knightdale, showcasing the team’s depth.
Senior leadership has meant everything this year. Senior Alex Adams had an impressive 12-3 singles season from the number two singles position, and he partnered well with fellow senior Ward Davis at number one doubles (8-7). Davis also had a strong season, boasting a 10-5 singles record from the number three spot. He has provided strong contributions to the team both as a competitor and a team leader. Junior Cooper Wingo also deserves some attention. Finishing 10-9 from the number one singles position, he solidified his position as one of the top competitors against the region’s toughest opponents.
The middle and bottom of the lineup were crucial to Millbrook’s success, especially at the singles level. Junior Aiden Marriott provided great consistency and resilience in finishing 9-7 at number four in the lineup. Freshman Luca Castaneda (10-5 at number five) also made a big impact, taking on a huge role for such a young player. These team members helped provide a depth that allowed the Wildcats to be competitive at every position.
The team excelled in doubles play. The number two doubles team of Marriott and Wingo had a solid record of 8-1 and proved to be one of the team’s most reliable assets. The number three doubles position featured a few undefeated pairings, including Oliver Gutierrea and Anand Patel (2-0), as well as Drew Freeman and Oliver Hemingway (2-0). This level depth allowed Coach Troch to mix and match different pairings and keep opponents guessing to optimize his matchups.
Drew Horwitz, a sophomore, recounted his journey with the Wildcats, recalling that his love for tennis started at the Seven Oaks Swim and Racquet Club. Horwitz met Coach Troch before his freshman year, and participating in workouts with the team opened the door to discover his passion for tennis. He considers his strong singles record last season his proudest achievement so far. To prepare for key matches, he listens to music and focuses on remaining relaxed and having a clear mind. When asked what makes the Wildcats unique, he pointed to the relationships and bonds among the team, which is a feeling that many of his teammates would agree with.
That chemistry was evident all year long in numerous thrilling contests. Anyone who witnessed their nail-biters such as the astonishing rematch against Wakefield after a loss from last season, could see the Wildcats’ refusal to back down. Millbrook’s highly successful regular season earned them a spot in the playoffs. They went on to win the first-round match in the Dual Team State Playoff by a score of 7-2 against Fuquay-Varina.
The Wildcats are about more than the score, for they are creating a team culture based on hard work, perseverance and mutual respect. There are many contributors that elevated this team’s level in every capacity. From the seniors establishing the standard, underclassmen rising to the occasion, or doubles teams establishing their level of chemistry and skill, each part of the team was crucial for the Wildcats’ successes.
As we look forward, Millbrook tennis has an incredibly bright future ahead. With returning future players Wingo, Marriott, Castaneda, and Margulies ready to lead, and young players like Hemingway and Patel gaining valuable experience, the Wildcats are in a prime position to continue their momentum. The graduating seniors demonstrated an incredible legacy of leadership, eagerness to support one another, and high standards for future Wildcats to exceed.
As the Wildcats close out their 2024-2025 season, one thought stands to represent what this team has accomplished: Millbrook men’s varsity tennis is an emerging program powered by talent, passion, and team culture that shows beyond the scoreboard.
